Psychiatrists in 95825

Photo of Fidelis Azeke - Fidelis Azeke, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Fidelis Azeke, PMHNP | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sacramento, CA 95825
Fidelis Azeke is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients of all ages with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, by providing medication management and psychotherapy services. His working style is interactive and collaborative. He focuses on meeting his patients where they are and striving to meet their individual needs, all while treating them with dignity and respect.
Fidelis Azeke is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating patients of all ages with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, by providing medication management and psychotherapy services. His working style is interactive and collaborative. He focuses on meeting his patients where they are and striving to meet their individual needs, all while treating them with dignity and respect.
(916) 957-3122 View (916) 957-3122
Photo of Constance Slusarenko, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Constance Slusarenko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Constance Henderson earned a Doctor in Nursing Practice and specializes as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Oregon Health & Science University. She has been in practice since 2017. Constance firmly embraces a holistic approach to patient care, placing significant emphasis on the multifaceted roles that social, psychological, and environmental factors play in shaping one’s health and overall well-being. She champions the unique capacity of the nursing framework to bridge the divide between physical and psychiatric health realms.
Constance Henderson earned a Doctor in Nursing Practice and specializes as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Oregon Health & Science University. She has been in practice since 2017. Constance firmly embraces a holistic approach to patient care, placing significant emphasis on the multifaceted roles that social, psychological, and environmental factors play in shaping one’s health and overall well-being. She champions the unique capacity of the nursing framework to bridge the divide between physical and psychiatric health realms.
(916) 299-8850 View (916) 299-8850
Photo of Patricia Tinglin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Patricia Tinglin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sacramento, CA 95825
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
Patricia Tinglin is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in California who has been practicing since 2017. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of San Francisco and is dually board-certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She has worked in many diverse areas as a Nurse Practitioner, including psychiatry, primary care, urgent care, pulmonary medicine, and academia. She is well versed in working with patients of all ages and has experience working with mild, moderate, and severe mental health disorders.
(916) 587-4348 View (916) 587-4348
Photo of Davina Gloria Uchegbu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Davina Gloria Uchegbu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I am Davina Uchegbu, DNP, a board-certified PMHNP. I began my career in healthcare over twenty years ago and have acquired a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to advancing my expertise in mental health management.
I am Davina Uchegbu, DNP, a board-certified PMHNP. I began my career in healthcare over twenty years ago and have acquired a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to advancing my expertise in mental health management.
(916) 581-4676 View (916) 581-4676
Photo of Matt Stephens - Matthew Stephens, DO | Mindful Health Solutions, Psychiatrist, DO
If you are seeking a safe, affirming space to explore your mental health, particularly as part of the LGBT+ community, Dr. Matt Stephens is here for you. Together, you address challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma, and focus on finding treatment options that align with your unique needs. Dr. Stephens brings a wealth of experience to his role, including advanced treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. His commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ patients and providing them with a sensitive environment has been a defining aspect of his career. He looks forward to continuing this work at Mindful Health Solutions.
If you are seeking a safe, affirming space to explore your mental health, particularly as part of the LGBT+ community, Dr. Matt Stephens is here for you. Together, you address challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma, and focus on finding treatment options that align with your unique needs. Dr. Stephens brings a wealth of experience to his role, including advanced treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. His commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ patients and providing them with a sensitive environment has been a defining aspect of his career. He looks forward to continuing this work at Mindful Health Solutions.
(279) 205-4460 View (279) 205-4460
Photo of Peter M Gaffney, Psychiatrist, MD
Peter M Gaffney
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Hi everyone. I'm an analytically-trained psychiatrist with a background in family medical practice and also in Buddhism. At this point my practice is adult psychotherapy and I am no longer treating patients who need medication, nor do I treat children. Although I'm trained in psychoanalytic therapy, my approach varies according to individual needs. I see depressed or anxious patients , those struggling with losses, stress, life events, or in their relationships and other issues as well. I have a particular interest in those with severe depression. I also offer individual training in psychodynamics to adult therapists.
Hi everyone. I'm an analytically-trained psychiatrist with a background in family medical practice and also in Buddhism. At this point my practice is adult psychotherapy and I am no longer treating patients who need medication, nor do I treat children. Although I'm trained in psychoanalytic therapy, my approach varies according to individual needs. I see depressed or anxious patients , those struggling with losses, stress, life events, or in their relationships and other issues as well. I have a particular interest in those with severe depression. I also offer individual training in psychodynamics to adult therapists.
(916) 866-1239 View (916) 866-1239
Thao Nguyen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PMH
Sacramento, CA 95825
Phuong Thao Nguyen, NP, PTNL, RN, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Illinois. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults, and seniors who are navigating challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Through a holistic approach, she tailors treatment plans that integrate evidence based therapies and medication management to help patients regain stability and improve their quality of life.
Phuong Thao Nguyen, NP, PTNL, RN, is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to individuals across Illinois. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults, and seniors who are navigating challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Through a holistic approach, she tailors treatment plans that integrate evidence based therapies and medication management to help patients regain stability and improve their quality of life.
(916) 659-5274 View (916) 659-5274
Photo of Dr. Kelsey Salzberg - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(916) 619-6891 View (916) 619-6891
Photo of Charter Yang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNPBC
Charter Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
With my extensive education from top universities like UC San Francisco and Samuel Merritt University in Sacramento, I take a holistic approach to healthcare. I consider every aspect of your physical and mental well-being, your cultural background, and your spiritual beliefs to create a personalized treatment plan that will help you thrive. I take a collaborative approach to customize a treatment plan which includes medication, brief psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. My ideal patients' goals are symptom reduction and self empowerment. I can't wait to hear your story and partner with you on your journey to optimal health.
With my extensive education from top universities like UC San Francisco and Samuel Merritt University in Sacramento, I take a holistic approach to healthcare. I consider every aspect of your physical and mental well-being, your cultural background, and your spiritual beliefs to create a personalized treatment plan that will help you thrive. I take a collaborative approach to customize a treatment plan which includes medication, brief psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. My ideal patients' goals are symptom reduction and self empowerment. I can't wait to hear your story and partner with you on your journey to optimal health.
(916) 542-6406 View (916) 542-6406
Photo of Angela Yuen, Psychiatrist, MD
Angela Yuen
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Dr. Yuen is a Psychiatrist specializing in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. She appreciates patients having access to medication management as well as the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. Dr. Yuen has always been interested in the human brain and what makes people feel, think, and behave the way they do. During school, she majored in neurobiology with a focus on mind, brain, and behavior. She is excited to see how these treatments develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
Dr. Yuen is a Psychiatrist specializing in depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. She appreciates patients having access to medication management as well as the latest interventional psychiatric treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. Dr. Yuen has always been interested in the human brain and what makes people feel, think, and behave the way they do. During school, she majored in neurobiology with a focus on mind, brain, and behavior. She is excited to see how these treatments develop over time as accessibility to these modalities improves.
(279) 205-4460 View (279) 205-4460
Photo of Rachel Martino, Psychiatrist, MD
Rachel Martino
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Dr. Rachel Martino is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Medical Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of California Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science in Sacramento, California. She is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2023. Dr. Martino specializes in women’s mental health and works with women or female-identifying patients ages 18-64.
Dr. Rachel Martino is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2019. She obtained her Medical Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She completed Psychiatry Residency at the University of California Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science in Sacramento, California. She is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 2023. Dr. Martino specializes in women’s mental health and works with women or female-identifying patients ages 18-64.
(916) 884-5411 View (916) 884-5411
Photo of Shawn Hersevoort, Psychiatrist, MD
Shawn Hersevoort
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
I am a very experienced, board certified adult psychiatrist who has worked in a broad range of treatment settings including public, private, and academic medical centers. I provide evaluation and medication management as well as a very limited amount of psychotherapy under specific conditions. Normally, I refer patients to our large psychotherapy staff for talk therapy. My approach to treatment can best be understood by following the course of my education. I first studied biochemistry, where I learned to appreciate the importance of rigorous clinical research, ongoing education, and the power of medications.
I am a very experienced, board certified adult psychiatrist who has worked in a broad range of treatment settings including public, private, and academic medical centers. I provide evaluation and medication management as well as a very limited amount of psychotherapy under specific conditions. Normally, I refer patients to our large psychotherapy staff for talk therapy. My approach to treatment can best be understood by following the course of my education. I first studied biochemistry, where I learned to appreciate the importance of rigorous clinical research, ongoing education, and the power of medications.
(916) 668-4108 View (916) 668-4108
Photo of Thao Tran, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Thao Tran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Sacramento, CA 95825
I am an ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Although, that wasn't always the case! After obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary's (go Athenians! ), I worked in the hospital on the Respiratory Unit until I took a leap into outpatient dermatology and medical aesthetics. It was during that time, talking with my clients, I knew I wanted to have a more profound impact on helping others achieve improved mental and emotional health. I decided to go back to school and get my Master's in Nursing from California State University Long Beach.
I am an ANCC Board Certified Adult Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Although, that wasn't always the case! After obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary's (go Athenians! ), I worked in the hospital on the Respiratory Unit until I took a leap into outpatient dermatology and medical aesthetics. It was during that time, talking with my clients, I knew I wanted to have a more profound impact on helping others achieve improved mental and emotional health. I decided to go back to school and get my Master's in Nursing from California State University Long Beach.
(916) 794-7367 View (916) 794-7367
Photo of DAVINA Uchegbu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN
DAVINA Uchegbu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, APRN
Sacramento, CA 95825
I am Davina Uchegbu, DNP, a board-certified PMHNP. I began my career in healthcare over twenty years ago and have acquired a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to advancing my expertise in mental health management.
I am Davina Uchegbu, DNP, a board-certified PMHNP. I began my career in healthcare over twenty years ago and have acquired a vast wealth of knowledge in psychiatry and mental health. Throughout my career, I have dedicated myself to advancing my expertise in mental health management.
(916) 884-2189 View (916) 884-2189
Photo of Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Lui is an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. Having treated patients with pharmacologic plans, he saw it was sometimes difficult to find the appropriate medication regiment, and even when found patients could relapse or worsen. He views TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement. Throughout residency, he received a breadth of experience treating a variety of patients. At Mindful Health Solutions, he continues to implement treatments for an array of psychiatric illnesses.
Dr. Lui is an Adult Psychiatrist specializing in mood and anxiety disorders. Having treated patients with pharmacologic plans, he saw it was sometimes difficult to find the appropriate medication regiment, and even when found patients could relapse or worsen. He views TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement. Throughout residency, he received a breadth of experience treating a variety of patients. At Mindful Health Solutions, he continues to implement treatments for an array of psychiatric illnesses.
(279) 205-4460 View (279) 205-4460
Photo of Kelsey Salzberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Kelsey Salzberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
Kelsey Salzberg is a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist in California practicing since 2012. She obtained her Medical Degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC and completed her Adult Psychiatric Residency at UC San Francisco in San Francisco, CA. She served as Chief Resident of Outpatient Services and was awarded an Area of Distinction in Women's Mental Health during residency. Dr. Salzberg uses an integrative approach in care involving medications and psychotherapy as appropriate for each individual.
(916) 313-2241 View (916) 313-2241
Photo of Helen Mettu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PMH
Helen Mettu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PMH
Sacramento, CA 95825
Helen Mettu, APN, is dedicated to helping individuals across California achieve mental wellness through personalized, compassionate care. Serving adolescents, adults, and seniors, she provides a safe and supportive environment where patients can address challenges and work toward lasting improvements in their mental health. Helen offers a combination of individual therapy and medication management tailored to each persons unique needs, empowering them to regain control of their lives. Helen specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSDtrauma.
Helen Mettu, APN, is dedicated to helping individuals across California achieve mental wellness through personalized, compassionate care. Serving adolescents, adults, and seniors, she provides a safe and supportive environment where patients can address challenges and work toward lasting improvements in their mental health. Helen offers a combination of individual therapy and medication management tailored to each persons unique needs, empowering them to regain control of their lives. Helen specializes in treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSDtrauma.
(916) 713-7314 View (916) 713-7314
Photo of Faisal Ahmed, Psychiatrist, MD
Faisal Ahmed
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
Neuro-developmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, significantly impact a person's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The need for mental health support in these cases is paramount. These individuals often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and managing emotions, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Effective mental health interventions tailored to their unique needs can provide crucial coping strategies, emotional regulation tools, and social skills training. By addressing their mental well-being alongside their developmental challenges,
(916) 602-4299 View (916) 602-4299
Photo of Julia Reece, Psychiatrist, MD
Julia Reece
Psychiatrist, MD
Sacramento, CA 95825
Julia C. Reece is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Washington, an MD from the University of Washington School of Medicine, and completed her Psychiatry residency at UC Davis Medical Center Psychiatry Training Program. Julia takes an individualized, patient-centered approach to care. As a psychiatrist, she prescribes medications when needed, provides psychotherapy as her schedule allows, and always supports patients in improving their overall health and wellbeing.
Julia C. Reece is a Psychiatrist in California who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BS in Biochemistry from the University of Washington, an MD from the University of Washington School of Medicine, and completed her Psychiatry residency at UC Davis Medical Center Psychiatry Training Program. Julia takes an individualized, patient-centered approach to care. As a psychiatrist, she prescribes medications when needed, provides psychotherapy as her schedule allows, and always supports patients in improving their overall health and wellbeing.
(916) 702-3647 View (916) 702-3647
Photo of Kevin Rosi - Mindful Health Solutions - Kevin Rosi, MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Rosi specializes in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), also known as Clinical Depression, which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication or interventional psychotherapy like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Using a holistic approach that includes neuromodulation, and healthy living habits, Dr. Rosi works with patients collaboratively, educating them about available modalities so the best treatment decision can be made to eliminate depression symptoms and restore health.
Dr. Rosi specializes in treating patients with Mood Depressive Disorders (MDD), also known as Clinical Depression, which, according to the Centers for Disease Control, may impact 14-17% of the adult population in their lifetime. Patients who suffer from this may be treated with medication or interventional psychotherapy like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Using a holistic approach that includes neuromodulation, and healthy living habits, Dr. Rosi works with patients collaboratively, educating them about available modalities so the best treatment decision can be made to eliminate depression symptoms and restore health.
(279) 205-4460 View (279) 205-4460
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 95825

30+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in 95825 who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
91% Anxiety
77% Bipolar Disorder
71% ADHD
69% Trauma and PTSD
66% Medication Management
49% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

97% Cigna and Evernorth
97% Optum
88% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in 95825 see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

66% Female
34% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 95825?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.